Artist Bio
Wendy Gemelle, an artist deeply influenced by her surroundings, began her journey in the lively neighborhoods of Long Island, NY. Her childhood, marked by frequent relocations and emotional upheavals, cultivated her vivid imagination and heightened sensitivity. Traversing through Levittown, the Bronx, and eventually Bayside, Queens, Wendy navigated transitions and familial challenges, nurturing her introspective nature. Art became a sanctuary for her, a means to capture enduring symbols such as trees to fulfill her subconscious yearning for stability.
Creativity runs through Wendy's family, with her mother adept in various artistic pursuits and her brother channeling his expression through music. Despite this familial inspiration, Wendy’s innate artistic abilities ultimately charted her own course. Although deterred from continuing art due to fears of exposure, Wendy ventured into healthcare, where her creativity flourished. She attained a BA in 1982, followed by an MS in Social Work in 1984, seamlessly blending psychological insights with her artistic sensitivity. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she wove her creativity into her practice, enriching it with empathy, attentive listening, and meticulous attention to detail, which significantly influenced her artistic work.
The COVID-19 pandemic marked a pivotal moment; the loss of three cherished individuals compelled her to engage in a transformative art workshop, reigniting her identity as an artist. Inspired by vivid hues and dynamic compositions, Wendy’s art draws from her meditative walks along the beach, tranquil bay-side life, and cherished relationships. Her artistic process resembles a dialogue, where each brushstroke responds to the preceding one. Techniques such as scraping, sanding, and layering uncover intricate stories beneath the surface. Enrolling in programs like Art2Life and workshops with Robert Szot refined her skills, while persistent practice honed her distinct mark-making style, drawn from her subconscious.
As Wendy retired in June 2024, she dedicated herself entirely to her art. Her creations continue to delve into themes of empathy and expression, each piece embodying her psychotherapeutic insights to engage viewers and act as a healing force in society. Her participation in collectives like the Rockaway Artists Alliance and Art2Life Academy highlights her commitment to personal development. While Wendy's work has not yet appeared in traditional galleries, her participation in events such as the Greenhaven Artists Association Open Studio showcases her aspirations.
Gemelle’s artistic journey is one of resilience and renewal, creating a new chapter driven by insatiable curiosity and a passion for depicting the world's beauty. Her art stands as a testament to personal growth, understanding, and the relentless pursuit of self-expression.